Top-Seeded Dubai Basketball Begin Playoffs Against In-Form Spartak Office Shoes

2025/26 AdmiralBet ABA League Payoffs, Quarter-Finals, Game 1, Wednesday, 6 May 2026:

DUBAI BASKETBALL - SPARTAK OFFICE SHOES

Where? Zetra Olympic Hall, Sarajevo

When? 19:00

Story of the Game: The Quarter-Finals series between Dubai Basketball and Spartak Office Shoes is set to get underway, with Game 1 taking place in Sarajevo on Wednesday evening.

Dubai Basketball enter the postseason as the top-seeded team, having finished the regular season in 1st place. That achievement secured them home court advantage throughout the Playoffs - and although they are playing away from their original base, Sarajevo has become a true fortress over the past two months. The team has built a strong bond with the local fans, and the atmosphere in the arena is expected to provide a significant boost right from the opening game of the series.

The hosts are now eager to justify their status as one of the main title contenders. With consistency, depth, and star power on their side, Dubai Basketball will look to set the tone early and protect their home court.

On the other side, Spartak Office Shoes arrive with momentum and confidence. They had to take the longer road to the Playoffs, successfully navigating through the Play-In stage with two crucial wins. While simply reaching the Quarter-Finals is already a notable achievement, Spartak have no intention of stopping there. Known for their fearless approach and ability to challenge top-tier opponents, they will aim to pull off another upset and shake up the bracket.

Interestingly, these two teams have not met during the current season, which adds an extra layer of unpredictability to the matchup. However, they did face each other twice last season, with Dubai Basketball winning both encounters - though only by narrow margins. That history suggests that we could be in for a tightly contested series right from Game 1.

Match-up in Focus: Mfiondu Kabengele vs. Shevon Thompson.

The battle in the paint could very well determine the outcome of this series, with two dominant centers going head-to-head.

Mfiondu Kabengele has been a cornerstone of Dubai Basketball’s success this season. His presence on both ends of the floor - scoring, rebounding, and rim protection - makes him one of the most impactful big men in the league.

Facing him will be Shevon Thompson, who has returned to action in excellent form. The Spartak big man was instrumental in his team’s Play-In victories, showcasing his strength, energy, and consistency around the basket. If Thompson continues at that level, he could pose a serious challenge to Dubai’s frontcourt.

Head-to-Head Score in ABA: In total 2:0; At Dubai Basketball home court 1:0.